Fern E. Spratt
Fern E. Spratt, 100, of Philadelphia, Mo., passed away at 12:35 AM, Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Monroe City Manor Care Center in Monroe City, Mo.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Lewis Brothers Funeral Chapel in Palmyra, Mo. Pastor Jermaine Talton will officiate. Burial will follow at New Providence Cemetery.
Friends and family are invited to Fern’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Friday, August 9, 2024, at the Lewis Brothers Funeral Chapel in Palmyra.
Fern was born September 1, 1923, in rural Palmyra, to Louis John Voepel and Martha Marie Wilson Voepel. She was married to Lilburn Spratt on July 17, 1944, in Hattiesburg, MS. He preceded her in death July 14, 2001.
Survivors include her children, Gloria Spratt of Quincy, IL, Peggy Shuck (Rusty) ofll.Philadelphia, MO, and Greg Spratt (Pam) of Palmyra, MO, Grandchildren, Kelly Daniel (Kent), Kevin Stratton, Kristin Spurlin, Tracy Schieferdecker, Melissa Ice (Phil), Heather Spratt, Jessica Henderson (Chris), Ashley McConnell (Carl), Travis Spratt (Audrey), Ryan Wood (Shalaine), Shane Wood (Stephanie), Jessica Neumann (Jonathan), David Spratt (Maria), and Eric Spratt, 27 great grandchildren, 10 great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Fern was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, Terry Spratt, and brother, Hubert Voepel.
Born into a world vastly different from the one she left, Fern’s hands were never idle, sewing garments for her family with the skill of a seasoned seamstress, tending to her garden and preserving the fruits of her labor through canning. Her cooking skills were well-known, as was her competitive streak during card games, often accompanied by her dry wit and funny little sayings, which became cherished family treasures often repeated and always bringing a smile.
Fern’s devotion extended beyond her home as a Sunday school teacher, where she poured her heart into creating memorable Christmas programs. Her love for country and gospel music was a testament to her spirited soul. Fern, a true “fixy lady”, took great pleasure in dressing up and styling her hair, her elegance apparent to all. Animals naturally flocked to her, from dogs and cats to her beloved pet rooster, all finding a friend in Fern.
Fern’s caring nature extended beyond her immediate circle, as she often prayed for those in leadership, including President Trump, whom she cared for deeply. Her recent milestone birthday of 100 years was a celebration of a life well-lived, full of moments that showcased her funny, faith-filled, and loving nature. Fern’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by the many lives she touched. Her spirit, a blend of kindness, humor, and unwavering love, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Pallbearers will be David Spratt, Eric Spratt, Travis Spratt, Ryan Wood, Shane Wood, and Mason Wood.
Memorial contributions may be made to Nations Family Church in Quincy.
Honorary pallbearers will be Cameron Stratton; Kody and Konner Daniel; Jesse Plunkett; Omar Neumann; Lane Spratt; Ambrose McConnell; and Austin, Will, and Grayson Burgess.